BATANGAS CITY — While many Filipinos are still finalizing their Holy Week plans, Menar Dicepeda and his partner Susan Mañibo are already on the move.

The couple, headed for Mindoro, arrived at Batangas Port early Friday morning—several days ahead of the expected passenger surge—hoping to skip the stress of long lines and crowded terminals.

“Okay naman po, komportable,” Mañibo shared, smiling as she waited in the shaded terminal area.

(It’s fine, comfortable.)

Their decision to travel early was shaped by past experiences during the Holy Week rush.

“Kapag po panutok na sa Holy Week, medyo masikip kaya medyo natatakot kami,” Dicepeda admitted.

(When it’s already the Holy Week peak, it gets crowded, so we get a bit anxious.)

Batangas Port, the country’s largest and busiest passenger terminal, is bracing for over 20,000 travelers daily starting April 17, Maundy Thursday—the start of the long break for many Filipinos—until April 20, Easter Sunday.

But on Friday, April 11, the scene was still calm. Lines at the ticketing booths and inspection areas were short, offering a window of ease for early travelers.

For Jenelyn Alahid, bound for Abra, the trip is about something more emotional than just a holiday.

Her child is graduating on Monday, and she’s determined not to miss it.

“Para po hindi madaming mga pasahero na siksikan,” she said.

(So I don’t have to deal with the heavy crowds.)

Last year’s travel ordeal still lingers in her memory.

“Ang tagal ng pila. Ang hirap po makipagsiksikan kapag Holy Week na babiyahe,” she added.

(The lines were so long. It’s hard to squeeze through crowds when traveling during Holy Week.)

To address the influx, the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) has ramped up preparations weeks in advance.

The Batangas Port has a seating capacity of 8,000, and this year, officials say it’s better equipped than ever.

“Marami na talaga tayong pagbabago diyan sa Batangas even prior to Holy Week,” said PPA spokesperson Eunice Samonte.

(We’ve already made several changes in Batangas even before Holy Week.)

Among the improvements are additional security personnel, upgraded baggage scanners, and more functional amenities—such as a prayer room, an all-gender comfort room, a children’s play area, and several new food establishments.

As the Lenten exodus draws closer, Samonte advises travelers to plan ahead, arrive early, and most of all, keep safety in mind.

For couples like Dicepeda and Mañibo, the early journey is already worth it. No chaos, no cramming, just peace—at least for now.